US Space Force Unveils First-Ever Image of Mysterious X-37B in Orbit
For the first time, the U.S. Space Force has publicly released an image of the highly classified X-37B space plane in orbit. Captured by an onboard camera, the photo shows Earth in the background while the spaceplane operates far above our planet. This is a rare glimpse into a spacecraft that has remained shrouded in secrecy since its first launch.
The X-37B is a reusable robotic spaceplane developed by Boeing and operated by the U.S. military. It has been conducting missions in orbit for over a decade, but details about its objectives remain classified. What we do know is that it serves as a test platform for experimental space technologies, including new propulsion systems, autonomous flight capabilities, and advanced materials testing.
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This latest mission, known as OTV-7, began on December 28, 2023, when the X-37B was launched atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. Unlike previous missions that remained in low Earth orbit, this one is exploring new orbital regimes. The newly released image suggests the spacecraft is operating at a much higher altitude than before. The Space Force has also confirmed that the mission includes experiments related to space domain awareness and the effects of radiation on materials, a project in collaboration with NASA.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this mission is the X-37B’s testing of aerobraking maneuvers. This technique uses atmospheric drag to alter a spacecraft’s orbit with minimal fuel, a strategy that could be crucial for future space operations. The ability to shift orbits efficiently makes the X-37B harder to track, adding another layer of mystery to its already secretive missions.
While the exact purpose of the X-37B remains classified, its long-duration missions—one lasting a record-breaking 908 days—suggest it is playing a critical role in U.S. space operations. Some speculate that it could be testing surveillance technologies or even space-based reconnaissance systems. Others believe it is laying the groundwork for next-generation military space vehicles.
Interestingly, the X-37B isn’t the only spaceplane in operation. China has been developing its own reusable spaceplane, known as Shenlong, which recently completed its third mission. The U.S. and China’s advancements in this area highlight the growing competition for dominance in space technology.
With no official timeline for the completion of this mission, the X-37B could remain in orbit for months or even years. What we do know is that every mission pushes the boundaries of what is possible in space. And as more details emerge, the world will be watching closely to see what this mysterious spaceplane reveals next.
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